‘Fishy’ vaginal odour is the BV symptom that usually sets it apart from other common vaginal infections, such as thrush. If you have symptoms, talk to your pharmacist – they will guide you on the best treatment for you.
There are a number of different conditions that may cause vaginal discharge. In the case of BV, most women experience a thin, watery grey/white discharge that is accompanied by a ‘fishy’ odour. In contrast, women suffering from thrush often report a thick, white discharge, usually accompanied by irritation and itching. If you are experiencing symptoms, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
Bacterial vaginosis, or ‘BV’, is a common condition caused by an imbalance between the ‘good’ bacteria and the ‘bad’ (BV-causing) bacteria that naturally occur in the vagina.
Normally, the vagina is slightly acidic, which is the perfect environment for the good bacteria to live and keep things normal. However, a range of factors can lead to depletion of the good bacteria, and the vagina can become less acidic. In this environment, the ‘bad’ bacteria thrive, affecting the overall health of the vagina and causing the BV symptoms.
Despite the fact that thrush is more well-known than bacterial vaginosis, BV is actually more common in women of childbearing age. There are a number of distinct differences between BV and thrush.
BV is caused by an imbalance in the naturally occurring bacteria inside the vagina. Thrush, however, is caused by an overgrowth of yeast called Candida.
The signs and symptoms of BV and thrush are quite different. Click here to find out more.
BV is associated with a characteristic ‘fishy’ vaginal odour and an abnormal greyish-white, thin vaginal discharge. Other common vaginal infections may be associated with intense itching or painful urination, and clumpy or frothy discharge. If you are unsure whether you have BV, or suspect you have a vaginal infection other than BV, please see your doctor. Also see your doctor if you consider that you may be at risk of a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI), if your symptoms persist or recur, or your condition worsens, as these symptoms may be indicative of another infection including an STI. See your doctor before using the product if you are diabetic, pregnant or breastfeeding (or plan to be).
If you do have BV, treating a male partner of an infected woman does not appear to prevent recurrences so is not routinely recommended. To prevent BV from recurring, you could consider avoiding sexual contact temporarily, or, if you have sex with a new partner, making sure he uses a condom. Always discuss your medical condition with your doctor or pharmacist.
It can be common for bacterial vaginosis to come back again after treatment.
See your doctor if symptoms persist after 7 days or recurs within 2 weeks of finishing treatment.
